Anne Elliott's photos with the keyword: Larch Valley trail

Any mushroom is welcome, expecially if it's in good condition like this small one : ) We saw quite a few fungi when friends and I were hiking the Larch Valley trail on Monday, but most were completely unphotogenic. We had a wonderful day out at Moraine Lake and the switch-back hike up to the beginning of Larch Valley. There was the expected Bear ruling, that people must hike in tight groups of 4 or more people - and there were only three of us. After waiting quite a long time, we asked a couple if they would like to join us. They hadn't planned on going on the hike, but they spent the next few hours "puffing and panting" with us up an endless series of uphill switchbacks through amazing forest. The view looking down though the trees on the turquoise waters of Moraine Lake was spectacular. I'm sure this couple, on holidays from England, won't soon forget their moment of madness when they agreed to accompany us, ha! They were delightful company and so patient when they had to wait for "some" of us to stop and rest our painful joints at regular intervals : ) They seemed to enjoy themselves, though - and they even had a few mushrooms pointed out to them. The day started off at around 1C with very dense fog in places. The light was pretty low for taking photos all day, and the gorgeous Larch trees had already lost a lot of their yellow needles. Nonetheless, we soaked up the beautiful scenery that surrounded us. How lucky we are to be able to visit and explore such places! Thanks so much, Stephen, for driving us on such a long trip - it was an absolute treat and so much appreciated! That Tim Horton's coffee on the way home sure hit the spot, too!

Photgraphed these small leaves along the trail climbing up to Larch Valley, Banff National Park, on October 3rd. I haven't been out yet today, but after all the rain we've been having, I expect there are many bare trees out there. If only Fall lasted much longer! It's such a beautiful season.